3 Ways to Use a Menstrual Collector

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3 Ways to Use a Menstrual Collector
3 Ways to Use a Menstrual Collector

Video: 3 Ways to Use a Menstrual Collector

Video: 3 Ways to Use a Menstrual Collector
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The menstrual collector, as its name implies, collects menstrual blood instead of absorbing it. After use, just clean it and leave it ready for the next time, which means it can be reused for a long time (on average, from five to ten years). Many women find the sink leaks less than the tampon and is more comfortable to wear. To use it, it is necessary to insert the collector in the vaginal canal and adjust it so that it is fully open and with a vacuum. Afterwards, you can leave it in place for up to 12 hours, depending on the flow, before emptying it. At first, it takes more work, but you need to get used to it. The cup is the most hygienic option and has the least impact on the environment in terms of menstruation, reducing the disposal of non-biodegradable materials.

Steps

Method 1 of 3: Inserting a Menstrual Collector

Use Menstrual Cup Step 14
Use Menstrual Cup Step 14

Step 1. Buy a menstrual collector at a pharmacy or online

Nowadays, the collector is very popular, so it is easier to find it in pharmacies. There are models big and small, so it's best to read reviews on the internet to find out which one is best for your body before you decide.

  • Some examples of brands are: Fleurity, Violeta Cup, Korui, Inciclo etc.
  • Collectors can range from $50.00 to over $100.00 (usually when it's a kit), but keep in mind that they are reusable and will last for many years. There are cheaper options, so do some research before you buy.
  • They are usually made of silicone and/or hospital rubber. If you are allergic to latex, choose a 100% silicone option.
Use Menstrual Cup Step 2
Use Menstrual Cup Step 2

Step 2. Read the instructions that came with the product

The guidelines vary by brand, so it's always a good idea to give it a try. That way you will be ready to use the collector you purchased.

Use Menstrual Cup Step 3
Use Menstrual Cup Step 3

Step 3. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the cup

Whenever you move the vaginal area, it is essential to wash your hands so as not to contaminate it with bacteria. Use warm soapy water and rub your hands for at least 20 seconds before rinsing.

You can sing "Happy Birthday" very slowly if you want another way of counting 20 seconds

Use Menstrual Cup Step 4
Use Menstrual Cup Step 4

Step 4. Boil it before using it for the first time, it is a good idea to sterilize the collector before putting it in

Boil a proper pot with water and place the collector there for five minutes. During the cycle, when emptying it, just wash it with water and neutral or intimate soap. (preferably for sensitive skin and without fragrance), rinsing very well. From one cycle to another, it is essential to sterilize the collector with boiling water, as mentioned above.

Use Menstrual Cup Step 5
Use Menstrual Cup Step 5

Step 5. When it's time to put it on, get in a position that's comfortable for you

Some women prefer to squat down, while others prefer to lift one leg. You can also sit on the toilet and spread your legs.

Set aside a little time to insert the collector for the first time. You may have to try it out a few times before you get it. If you like, try putting it over a hot bath to relax more. There is also the possibility of purchasing an applicator, which greatly facilitates the introduction of the collector into the vaginal canal

Use Menstrual Cup Step 3
Use Menstrual Cup Step 3

Step 6. Fold the collector for easy insertion

You can try several folds: at C (join the opening and fold the cup to form a half moon), a narrower at 7 (join one end of the edge to the middle of the cup, forming the number), the punch down fold (press one side from the edge of the collector to the bottom and hold it in this position), among many others.

  • It is not possible to place the collector without bending it, as the vacuum prevents insertion. Experiment with various folds until you find the best one for your body.
  • It is also possible to apply a little lubricant to facilitate the entry of the cup, although this practice is not very recommended.
  • The opening of the collector must be up and the cabin down, obviously.
Use Menstrual Cup Step 7
Use Menstrual Cup Step 7

Step 7. Make your muscles very relaxed

Take a few deep breaths. If you are nervous, the whole body becomes tense, which makes it difficult to place the cup. Contract your vaginal muscles for a second and then relax them.

Use Menstrual Cup Step 8
Use Menstrual Cup Step 8

Step 8. Push the catch in towards the tailbone

With one hand, separate the labia and with the other push the bent cup into the vaginal canal. The ideal is not to push it upwards but backwards. Release the fold and wait for it to open and snap into place.

  • In general, the sink is not as tall as a tampon, but it all depends on whether your cervix is tall or short.
  • If something feels wrong, try re-entering it until it feels comfortable.
Use Menstrual Cup Step 9
Use Menstrual Cup Step 9

Step 9. Rotate the manifold to ensure a vacuum

Hold the base of the cup by the sides (not the cabinet) and give it at least one complete turn. This ensures that it is fully open to form the vacuum.

  • You may hear or feel something, which signals that the collector has opened. If you're not sure, place a finger in the birth canal and feel for the base of the cup. It should be rounded or oval depending on your anatomy.
  • Didn't it open? Pull the cabin down slightly, without removing the collector.

Method 2 of 3: Removing the Menstrual Collector

Use Menstrual Cup Step 10
Use Menstrual Cup Step 10

Step 1. Check the collector every 12 hours, more or less, depending on your flow. In most cases, it is possible to go without emptying the cup for up to 12 hours

In other words, you just need to change it day and night, in the comfort of your own home.

People with heavy flow may need to empty the collector more often

Use Menstrual Cup Step 11
Use Menstrual Cup Step 11

Step 2. Sit on the toilet to take out the cup

Some women can even get it standing up, but for those just starting out, the ideal is to use the toilet. Without practice, you could end up making a mess. Don't worry though – once you figure out the best way to remove yours, things get simpler!

Use Menstrual Cup Step 11
Use Menstrual Cup Step 11

Step 3. Break the vacuum first

You can't simply pull the menstrual cup off, precisely because of the vacuum that holds it in place. You need to hold the cup by the base, just above the cabinet, and squeeze it, bringing the sides together. This measure is enough to break the vacuum. Pull the collector down, keeping it upright.

  • Couldn't you break the vacuum that way? Try swiping a finger until you reach the edge of the cup.
  • Don't worry if you can't get it out the first time! It's impossible for him to "get lost" in your vagina - that's not how anatomy works. Take a moment, relax and try again. If you want to make it easier, give your pelvic floor a slight push (mimicking the movement of doing number 2).
Use Menstrual Cup Step 12
Use Menstrual Cup Step 12

Step 4. Empty the contents of the collector into the toilet

After removing it, just turn it over the toilet to dump the contents. If you can't wash it right away, clean it with moistened tissues or toilet paper and as soon as you can do the complete cleaning.

Be careful not to drop the object in the vase. If this happens, sterilize it in boiling water before inserting it again

Use Menstrual Cup Step 14
Use Menstrual Cup Step 14

Step 5. Wash the collector with soap and water

Ideally, wash it in the sink before putting it back in again. Use a liquid soap and rinse very well so as not to leave any residue. Finally, put the collector back on.

  • It's best to use a neutral, fragrance-free soap or even an intimate soap.
  • If it's a disposable collector, throw it in the trash and put in a new one.

Method 3 of 3: Cleaning the Collector and Troubleshooting

Use Menstrual Cup Step 13
Use Menstrual Cup Step 13

Step 1. Sterilize the collector at the end of your period

First, wash it well with soap and water. Afterwards, boil water in a small saucepan and place it in boiling water for five to seven minutes to kill any bacteria. It's best to have a separate pot just for this purpose (preferably one that doesn't release residue and is enameled). Do not use aluminum or teflon pans.

  • If the collector stains, use hydrogen peroxide.
  • It is not recommended to use vinegar, alcohol or other disinfectant products, as they can damage the material.
  • Always read the package instructions regarding sterilization, as the process may vary by brand.
Use Menstrual Cup Step 16
Use Menstrual Cup Step 16

Step 2. Cut a part of the cabin if you are uncomfortable

Some women feel the cock poking their vagina, which causes irritation and pain. If so, just cut a part of it, making it more comfortable to use.

You can also buy another collector with a smaller cable

Use Menstrual Cup Step 17
Use Menstrual Cup Step 17

Step 3. Try multiple collectors if the first one isn't cool

Not everyone adapts to any cup. This is precisely why there is such a wide variety available on the market. Did you find your uncomfortable? Try another one to see if it fits better.

  • You can try a smaller collector with a shorter handle or made for more sensitive people (which are softer and thinner).
  • There are even collectors of different shapes, so don't give up.
Use Menstrual Cup Step 18
Use Menstrual Cup Step 18

Step 4. Buy a heavy-flow manifold if yours is leaking

Accidents happen, but it's not for you to have to go through a leak all the time, especially knowing that the vacuum is right. However, if your stream always overfills the cup and overflows and you can't or don't want to empty it more often, try an option for heavy streams. It has a higher capacity, decreasing the risk of leaks.

Use Menstrual Cup Step 19
Use Menstrual Cup Step 19

Step 5. Are you a virgin or have you never used a tampon?

Your birth canal and hymen may not stretch easily to accommodate the menstrual cup. In this case, try stretching the area over the course of a month using your fingers. Start with one or two fingers and increase to three as your body allows. You can also use a small vibrator. Don't overdo it at once: if it hurts, stop and go back to the previous way that didn't cause pain.

The hymen does not completely cover the entrance to the vagina, except in very rare cases that need surgical correction. It is a membrane that is partially around the entrance and can stretch a little. It is not a hymen that should indicate whether you are a virgin or not. Although it can stretch over time, it can also break with the insertion of an object into the vagina, unless you are compliant

Tips

  • You don't like the idea of inserting anything into the vagina, but think about the environment and would you like to use reusable products? Look for absorbent and cloth absorbent panties.
  • Store your collector in a breathable, easy-to-clean cloth bag.
  • The cup's idea is to collect the blood, not absorb it like a tampon. Therefore, you can put it on before your period starts.
  • If you don't want to use a sink or tampons and prefer tampons that don't cause toxic shock syndrome, buy a reusable menstrual sponge (it's hard to find on the domestic market).

Notices

  • On days with higher flow, the full cup may leak. Use an external absorbent under warranty and empty the collector more often so you don't have any problems.
  • The menstrual collector is not a contraceptive and, in most cases, needs to be removed before intercourse. However, there are specific tubes for having sex, which must be inserted like a diaphragm.

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